(INQUIRER PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA)
MANILA, Philippines — The Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVRP) or number coding scheme in Metro Manila will remain suspended since the public transportation system has yet to normalize operations, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announce on Thursday.
“If we implement the number coding scheme now, can our public transport accommodate passengers given the minimum health protocols such as social distancing needed to be implemented?” MMDA chairman Benhur Abalos said in a statement.
Abalos pointed out that with the 50 percent passenger capacity limit still in place, there would be a need for more public utility vehicles (PUVs) on the road.
He noted that there were previous instances when there were not enough PUVs to ferry commuters which resulted in long queues at terminals or loading bays.
Abalos also warned that once the number coding is reimposed, commuters may resort to carpooling, compromising their health.
The MMDA first suspended the number coding scheme in 2020 “until further notice” due to the “limited operations of public transportation in Metro Manila.”
Average speed hike
Meanwhile, increased travel speed has been recorded on EDSA despite the increased vehicular volume.
“Before pandemic, vehicle volume on EDSA was averaging at 405,000 but now, it is about 399,000,” said Abalos.
“However, southbound travel speed is faster now at 27 kilometers per hour, compared to 11 kilometers per hour before the pandemic,” he added.
Abalos attributed the improved traffic flow to the following:
- Implementation of the new busway located at the innermost lanes adjacent to the MRT Line 3.
- Opening of U-Turn slots along Edsa
- New road infrastructures
- Mabuhay lanes
He urged motorists to explore the option of using Mabuhay lanes and newly-opened roads as alternate routes to avoid traffic jams.
“I am asking for the public’s understanding and utmost cooperation as the government is still addressing the issue of transportation. Mabuhay lanes serve as alternate routes for motorists who want more options going to their destination,” Abalos said.